Can’t get into a psychologist in Canberra?
Are you waiting to see a psychologist in Canberra?
Registered counsellors are a great alternative in many cases
Unfortunately waiting lists to see a psychololgist in Canberra are very long. With so many people struggling with their mental health, the system is stretched. But when you need help, you do not want to wait months to see a professional.
Registered counsellors and psychotherapists are a less well known resource in mental health care. Counsellors who are registered with a recognised professional association such as the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) are fully qualified, bound by a code of ethical conduct, hold professional indemnity insurance, participate in clinical supervision and must keep up-to-date through regular professional development.
What is the difference?
Registered counsellors are qualified to help with a range of mental health and life challenges which may include depression, anxiety, stress, grief, life transistions, parenting and relationship challenges… the list goes on. They tend to have a very person-centred and wholistic approach. Psychologists are generally diagnosis focused. They provide assessment services along with support for more severe mental illness.
If you or your loved one are struggling with low mood, anxiety, the stressors of daily life, you have likely made an appointment with your GP and they have created a Mental Health Treatment Plan for you and given you a list of Canberra psychologists. Even GPs can be unaware of the untapped well of mental health support provided by registered counsellors.
Get Help Now
Now you’ve contacted all the names on the list to book into a psychologist in Canberra only to be told you can’t get an appointment. You took the first important and brave step in getting help. You do not need to wait months to take the next one. Many counsellors in Canberra have immediate availability and are ready to help you.
Did you know…
Counsellors are more affordable than psychologists
Even though counsellors are not covered by Medicare under a Mental Health Treatment Plan, their fees are lower so you’ll probably find that your out-of-pocket expenses are similar or even less by seeing a psychologist.
You don't need a referral
You do not need a referral from a GP to see a counsellor. Plus, some people don’t want a Mental Health Treatment Plan on their medical record. That is not required to see a counsellor.
There is no limit on the number of appointments
When you see a psychologist on a Mental Health Treatment Plan, you are limited to ten subsidised sessions per calendar year. Ther are no such limits on counselling appointments.
Enquire about Counselling
If you’d like to know more about seeing a counsellor rather than a psychologist in Canberra, please get in touch. My practice is in Turner at North Canberra Counselling. I also have contacts for many other counsellors in Canberra as it is important to find the right service for your needs, as well as the person you ‘click’ with. The relationship you have with your therapist is an important factor in the success of therapy. To learn more about me, visit my About and Services pages.
Book a free 15 minute call
I recommend prospective clients book a free (and obligation free) phone or video call to check if I am the right counsellor for you. Click the button below to find a convenient time.
Please note that I only see people 16 years old or over.
Please also check out my FAQs if you have other questions. They may be answered there.
Request contact by email
I recognise that phone calls are difficult for some people so, if you prefer to discuss your needs via email, please let me know in the contact form here.
Crisis Contacts
Please note, this is NOT a crisis service. If you are in crisis, please contact one of the services below.
Emergency Services - 000
If lives are immediately in danger, call Emergency Services.
Suicide Callback Service - 1300 659 467
www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au
Free nationwide service providing 24/7 phone and online counselling to people affected by suicide.
Lifeline - 13 11 14
Providing all Australians experiencing emotional distress with access to 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services.
Beyond Blue - 1300 224 636
Qualified mental health line counsellors available for free 24/7.
Kids Helpline - 1800 551 800
Telephone or webchat service for young people aged 5-25, available 24/7.
MensLine Australia - 1300 789 978
Free telephone and online counselling service offering support for Australian Men 24/7.
1800 Respect - 1800 737 732
Free national domestic, family and sexual violence counselling service, 24/7.
13 YARN - 13 92 76
Free and confidential crisis support service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people 24/7.
Q Life - 1800 184 527
A telephone and webchat service for members of the LGBTIQ+ community.